Best Daycares in Dayton, OH — 2026 Rankings

We ranked 9 daycares and childcare centers in Dayton based on licensing, accreditation, parent reviews, and childcare quality.

Top Daycares in Dayton

  1. #1 — Mad River Early Childhood Center Score: 15/100

    Programs: Preschool, Day care preschool, Home service. View full profile →

  2. #2 — Youthland Academy Score: 15/100

    Programs: Preschool, Day care preschool, Home service. View full profile →

  3. #3 — Pop Up Preschool Score: 15/100

    Programs: Preschool, Day care preschool. View full profile →

  4. #4 — On Purpose Academy Score: 15/100

    Programs: Preschool, Home service, Elementary school. View full profile →

  5. #5 — Merrie Time Christian Preschool & Daycare Score: 15/100

    Programs: Preschool, Day care preschool, Home service. View full profile →

  6. #6 — Miami Valley Child Development Centers - Rosa Parks Score: 11/100

    Programs: Preschool, School, Education. View full profile →

  7. #7 — Longfellow Preschool Score: 11/100

    Programs: Preschool, Day care preschool, Elementary school. View full profile →

  8. #8 — Playtime Nursery School Score: 11/100

    Programs: Preschool, Home service, Day care preschool. View full profile →

  9. #9 — Burkhardt Road KinderCare Score: 11/100

    Programs: Preschool, Child care and day care, School, Education. View full profile →

How We Rank Daycares & Childcare Centers

Our Guide Score (0–100) combines Google rating (35%), review volume (20%), web and contact presence (20%), profile completeness (15%), accreditation such as NAEYC (5%), press recognition (3%), and years of operation (2%). Read our full methodology →

Frequently asked questions

Who is the #1 daycare in Dayton?
Mad River Early Childhood Center is currently the #1 ranked daycare in Dayton based on our Guide Score, which evaluates parent reviews, licensing status, accreditation, and quality signals. See the full ranked list above.
How are daycares ranked in Dayton?
Our Guide Score (0–100) combines Google rating (35%), review volume (20%), web and contact presence (20%), profile completeness (15%), accreditation (5%), press recognition (3%), and years of operation (2%). There is no paid placement.
How much does daycare cost in Dayton?
Childcare costs in Dayton vary by program type and age group. Full-time infant care commonly ranges from $800–$2,500/month; preschool programs run $600–$1,800/month. Each center's profile page lists contact information for current rates.